Neapolitan-Style Second Course: Recipes for Eggs in Purgatory with Sauce

When it comes to Italian cuisine, Neapolitan-style dishes are known for their rich flavors and hearty ingredients. A beloved second course in Naples is Eggs in Purgatory with Sauce, also known as “Uova in Purgatorio con Sugo”. This dish brings together the freshness of eggs with a tangy tomato sauce, creating a truly satisfying and comforting meal. Let’s dive into the details of this delightful Neapolitan recipe.

To prepare Eggs in Purgatory with Sauce, you will need a few key ingredients. First and foremost, you will need a flavorful tomato sauce. Neapolitan-style tomato sauce is usually made from ripe and juicy tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and basil. The sauce is simmered for hours, allowing the flavors to meld together into a rich and decadent base.

Once you have your tomato sauce ready, it’s time to move on to the eggs. To make the perfect Eggs in Purgatory, you will need to create small wells in the tomato sauce by pressing a spoon into the simmering sauce. Then, gently crack each egg into its own well. It’s essential to keep the eggs separate to ensure they cook evenly and retain their delicate texture.

Next, cover the skillet or pot with a lid, allowing the eggs to cook in the tomato sauce. The cooking time will vary depending on your personal preference for the doneness of the eggs. Some prefer runny yolks, while others prefer fully cooked yolks. It’s recommended to cook the eggs until the whites are set, but the yolks are still slightly soft to achieve that perfect balance of richness.

While the eggs are cooking, the tomato sauce will continue to infuse them with its flavors. The tanginess of the tomatoes combined with the creaminess of the egg yolk creates a harmonious taste that is both comforting and satisfying. The Neapolitan-style tomato sauce adds depth and warmth to this simple dish, elevating it to a whole new level.

As the Eggs in Purgatory with Sauce finishes cooking, it’s time to serve this delightful Neapolitan dish. Gently spoon each egg, along with some of the tomato sauce, onto individual plates. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor and visual appeal.

This dish can be enjoyed on its own as a main course or accompanied by crusty bread to soak up the delicious tomato sauce. Its simplicity is what makes it truly shine, allowing the flavors of the eggs and the sauce to take center stage.

With its combination of fresh ingredients, robust flavors, and comforting qualities, Eggs in Purgatory with Sauce is a Neapolitan-style masterpiece. This traditional dish reflects the soul of Neapolitan cuisine – simple, yet deeply satisfying. Whether you try it in a quaint Neapolitan trattoria or make it in your own kitchen, this recipe will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Naples.

Next time you’re craving a taste of Italy, give Eggs in Purgatory with Sauce a try. You’ll discover why this Neapolitan second course has become a beloved culinary classic, and why its flavors linger in the hearts of food lovers around the world. Buon appetito!